Lumbrassis

A strong and proud race native to the dark fourth and upper fifth layers of Weolcan, the Lumbrassis (singular Lumbrassi/o/a) are one of the dominant races in the civilized world. The harsh conditions of their homeland have made them a stubborn people with strong family ties. They have a long history, but a large part of it is dominated by friction between their largest state, Ponterra, and the wandering Wistanni.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Lumbrassis have thick, somewhat long ears. They also have sharp features, with broad chins and prominent cheekbones being dominant. They have large eyes with deep eyelid creases and almost cat-like pupils.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Most Lumbrassis are native to the fourth layer, with a fair number of villages settled in the upper reaches of the fifth layer and the lowermost reaches of the third. A large majority of them are native to cities and villages under Ponterra’s banner, and those that aren’t were likely born on ships.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Lumbrassis have long adapted to the dark conditions of their native layers. They have exceptional night vision, but in exchange don’t have as good color vision as the other races. They have to adjust slowly to the bright sunlight of the upper layers when they visit, otherwise they risk blindness.

Symbiotic and Parasitic organisms

A species of bioluminescent lichen, referred to as “glow-blooms” grows on all Lumbrassis in a symbiotic relationship. The glow-blooms have a safe platform to grow on in the Lumbrassis’ skin and thick, curly hair, and in exchange they give the Lumbrassis vital nutrients they otherwise would not receive due to lack of sunlight. These glow-blooms are incredibly vibrant in coloration, with warm reds and oranges being the most common, and they are actively cultivated and taken care of in Lumbrassi grooming.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Lumbrassi names traditionally have incredibly auspicious meanings, given by parents in hopes of granting the child a prosperous life and the qualities of their names. Surnames are similar, as most are derived from an ancestor’s given name, but instead of being passed down strictly matrilineally or patrilineally, when a Lumbrassi couple marries, they take on and pass down the surname of whichever partner is of higher status.

Major Organizations

There are two dominant organizations with Lumbrassi society: the nation of Ponterra and the nomadic Wistanni culture. Ponterra has a long history and is a strong force to be reckoned with. But it’s opponents often berate it as being stubborn and isolationist; meanwhile Ponterra often criticizes the Wistanni and “Wistanni-influenced” rising generation as being restless and counter-traditionalist. In truth the Wistanni have a vibrant culture themselves, being a people of nomadic sailors and explorers.

History

According to traditional accounts of history, the Lumbrassis were abandoned by the people of the higher layers long ago for reasons unknown. As such, Lumbrassi civilizations have risen and fallen completely isolated from the upper layers for ages.

Lifespan

90 years

Average Height

4’5” - 5’3”

Average Physique

Thanks to the heavier air pressure of the lower layers, Lumbrassis are short and stocky. They have dense bones and bulky muscles that give them an edge in their environment. Because of this, Lumbrassis have a reputation for being stronger than most humans even when out of shape.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Due to a lack of sunlight, Lumbrassis have pale skin, almost ash-like in coloration. Although it is not easy to see their blood through their thick skin, they can blush and they sunburn incredibly easily.

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